Richard Donat was a talented actor who carved out a solid and respected career in Hollywood over several decades. Early on, Richard Donat began building his reputation with appearances in a number of notable films. One of his first significant roles came in Tomorrow Never Comes (1978), which starred Oliver Reed — a film that helped put Richard Donat on the map. He followed that up with a role in Barry Newman’s City on Fire (1979), further showcasing his range. Over the years, Richard Donat continued to take on compelling projects, such as Sam Hughes’ War (1984), where he shared screen time with Gordon Pinsent.
In addition to his film work, Richard Donat made a strong impression on television. He appeared in the ABC television special Cougar! (1983–84), marking one of his earlier forays into TV. As his career progressed, Richard Donat became a familiar face in both series and made-for-TV movies. He delivered memorable performances in productions like The Secret (1991–92) and Mary Silliman’s War, which aired on Lifetime during the 1993–94 season. Richard Donat also took part in Calm at Sunset (CBS, 1996–97), a moving TV movie that highlighted his depth as an actor.
He wasn’t just limited to standalone films or movies; Richard Donat also contributed to long-running series. For instance, he had a role in the paranormal-themed show PSI Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal (1996–2001), bringing his seasoned presence to the cast. Later, he appeared in the miniseries The Pilot’s Wife (2001–02), further demonstrating his versatility. Fans of genre television might also recognize Richard Donat from his time on Haven (Syfy, 2009–2015), where he brought nuance to his character in the supernatural drama.
Even in the later stages of his career, Richard Donat remained active. One of his more recent appearances was in the dark fantasy series Hemlock Grove (2012), proving that his talent endured through the years. Throughout it all, Richard Donat maintained a steady and impactful presence across film and television, leaving behind a body of work that reflects dedication, skill, and quiet professionalism.
Well, when it comes to Richard Donat’s filmography, things take an interesting turn—his highest rated movie actually happens to be My American Cousin (1985), which also, oddly enough, holds the distinction of being his lowest rated film. Yeah, that’s right—Richard Donat has this unique case where one title, My American Cousin (1985), stands out both at the top and the bottom of the ratings scale. It’s a bit unusual, but hey, sometimes a performance or role can spark such varied reactions. So, whether you’re looking at critical acclaim or more mixed responses, Richard Donat’s name is firmly tied to this 1985 release in more ways than one.